Cuddling can help heal physical wounds…Really?

Cuddling can heal both emotional and, as it turns out, physical wounds. Positive social interactions (such as hugging, kissing, cuddling, etc.) result in the increase of oxytocin. It was already known that oxytocin evokes feelings of contentment, reduction of anxiety, and feelings of calmness and security. Many studies have shown a correlation of oxytocin with human bonding.

A new study however had physically wounded heterosexual couples engage in positive social interactions. It was found that plasma oxytocin levels directly correlated with the speed at which the physical wounds healed. Researchers hypothesized that this is because oxytocin reduces inflammation. There you have it folks! Oxytocin: reducing inflammation everywhere, from the heads, to the toes, to the soul.